Agate Gemstone

Agate is a gemstone from the mineral quartz family and is formed in volcanic rock. Agate is used to make a variety of different jewellery types; it can be cut and set in jewellery such as earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets. Agate can also be left in free form slabs to give a more tribal or masculine look for men's jewellery and friendship bracelets.

Colour

Agate occurs in a wide range of colours which include: brown, white, red, grey, pink, yellow and black. The colours are caused by impurities present. When agate is cut open it often reveals a stunning array of patterns and distinct bands caused by ground waters seeping into the stone. Agate is a porous stone and is sometimes dyed in order to give it a more spectacular colour.

Caring for agate

To clean your agate jewellery use mild soapy water when needed. Do not use other household chemicals as this may effect the durability of the gemstone. Agate is quite a hard gemstone but should be stored away from other jewellery in a clothed pouch to prevent damage and should not be exposed to heat or direct sunlight as this can cause discolouration.

Sourcing agate

As agate is formed from volcanic activity it is often sourced from places such as North America and Mexico.

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